Résonance: a LingOrm's Story

Chapter 43: Almost Done

Ling's plan to solve the crisis was nearly 80% complete. The lawsuit against the bullies was gaining traction, and the legal team, thanks to Ying's connections, was working tirelessly to build a strong case. With Pring gathering crucial evidence, Ling felt more confident that they could win this battle. Orm's online presence was being carefully managed by a newly hired PR team. They were working to rebuild her image, tackling the wave of negative comments and rumors that had tarnished her reputation. Slowly but surely, things were falling into place.

Orm, on the other hand, was stable now and on the road to recovery. She had been discharged from the hospital and was resting at Ling's apartment, where her mother, Mrs. Koy, had decided to stay to care for her. Ling's mother and her brother, Daniel, had rented a nearby hotel to give Orm and her mother some space, though they visited frequently.

Each morning started the same. Ling's mother, Mrs. Kwong, would arrive early from her hotel, arms laden with fresh groceries. She'd make her way into the kitchen, quietly preparing breakfast for everyone. Her movements were graceful and efficient, blending seamlessly between cooking and attending online meetings for her business back in Hong Kong. The scent of fresh congee and soy sauce-infused dishes would fill the apartment, bringing warmth into the air.

Orm's mother sat by her daughter's side, gently tending to her, still adjusting to the rhythm of life in Ling's apartment. The apartment was sleek, modern, and spacious — a true reflection of Ling's tidy and minimalistic personality. Orm, still weak but gaining her strength back, smiled as her mother fed her small portions of the breakfast Mrs. Kwong had made.

"How are you feeling today, my sweet?" Mrs. Koy asked softly, her voice laced with worry.

"Better, Mae," Orm replied, her voice a little hoarse. "But I still get tired easily."

Orm's mother brushed a stray hair from her daughter's forehead. "Rest, that's the most important thing right now."

Meanwhile, Ling was constantly on the move. Between phone calls, video meetings, and coordinating with the lawyers, she barely had a moment to sit. Her schedule was packed, but she still carved out time to care for Orm. Every few hours, she'd step away from her work to check on her girlfriend, pressing a kiss to her forehead or massaging her hands to comfort her.

"Ling, you need to rest too," Orm's mother said gently one afternoon as she watched the younger woman darting between tasks.

Ling smiled, though her eyes were tired. "I will, Mae. I just need to finish a few things first."

Mrs. Koy watched Ling with admiration. Despite the stress she must have been feeling — managing both her business and the crisis they were in — Ling never once complained. She was steadfast, determined, and undeniably devoted to Orm.

When Ling would finally settle down for the night, she'd lie beside Orm, wrapping her arms around her, as if reassuring herself that her girlfriend was still there. Orm would nestle into Ling's embrace, grateful for her partner's strength.

"Thank you," Orm whispered one night.

Ling kissed the top of her head. "For what?"

"For everything," Orm replied softly. "For not giving up on me."

Ling's grip tightened. "I will never give up on you, my baby."

As the days passed, Mrs. Koy began to see just how deeply Ling cared for her daughter. Every action, no matter how small, was done with love and attention. From the way Ling would adjust Orm's blankets to how she ensured that Orm had all her medications on time, it was clear that Ling wasn't just doing these things out of obligation. She truly loved Orm.

It was a quiet afternoon when Orm's mother had a private moment with Ling. Orm was resting, and Mrs. Kwong was on a video call in the living room. They sat on the balcony, where the soft breeze carried the sounds of the city below.

"Ling," Mrs. Koy began, her voice gentle but firm. "I see how you care for my daughter. You've been her rock through all of this, and I want you to know... I am grateful."

Ling looked down, a bit shy under the gaze of Orm's mother. "Mae... I just want Orm to be happy and safe. I would do anything for her."

"I know," Orm's mother replied. "And I see it every day. You've taken on so much, and it's not just because of this recent trouble. From the moment you two started dating, I've seen how you've supported her. You've been more than just a partner."

Ling's eyes softened, filled with emotion. "Orm means everything to me. I just want to protect her."

"You're doing more than that," Mrs. Koy said with a warm smile. "You've become part of her life, part of our family. I've seen the way you've managed everything, even while dealing with your own business pressures. It's not easy, but you're doing it."

Ling smiled, a little embarrassed by the praise. "I just want to do right by Orm, Mae. That's all."

Mrs. Koy placed a hand on Ling's. "You already are. You have my blessing, Ling. I want you to know that. You're not just someone Orm is dating; you're someone I trust with her heart."

Ling was visibly moved, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Thank you, Mae. That means the world to me."

They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, both women deep in thought.

Ling returned to work with renewed determination. Orm's mother's words echoed in her mind, filling her with a sense of purpose. She wasn't just fighting for Orm's career or reputation; she was fighting for their future together.

With Ying's assistance, Ling finalized the contracts with the PR firm, ensuring that Orm's online presence was being handled with care. They were working on a rebranding strategy that would help shift the narrative back in Orm's favor. Meanwhile, Daniel had taken over most of Ling's business operations, freeing her up to focus on Orm and the legal battle.

Orm's health was improving, though she was still fragile. Ling knew they had to move carefully. The lawsuit was progressing, and Pring's efforts to gather evidence were paying off. They were close to exposing the culprits behind the bullying, and soon, justice would be served.

There were still tough days ahead, but with the support of their families and each other, Ling and Orm felt more hopeful. Each day was a small victory. Orm's strength was returning, and with every passing moment, the bond between them grew stronger.

As Ling juggled her responsibilities, she found comfort in the love and support of her family. Her mother's morning breakfasts, her father's business advice, and Daniel's help with her work all lightened the load. And most importantly, Orm's mother had accepted her into the family, giving her the confidence to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Ling knew the fight wasn't over yet, but she was ready. Together with Orm, she would face the world — and they would come out stronger on the other side.